At the end of the 18th century, a Scottish industrialist who had emigrated to France built the first water-powered spinning mill in this region. His only daughter, Grace, married a London banker named William. To ensure the succession of his business, the founder of the cotton company persuaded his 15-year-old grandson, Thomas, to learn the intricacies of the cotton industry. At 19, having been trained in the best British cotton industries, Thomas emigrated to France. Barely two years later, his grandfather died. The estate fell entirely to Grace and William. The family commuted between London and France, placing the now 22-year-old Thomas in charge of the cotton company, while William oversaw the construction of the chateau.